The article examines the process of inconsistency of the existing system of training production organizers. Based on research conducted at the largest machine-building enterprise in Russia for the production of mainline freight and passenger electric locomotives, PC NEVZ LLC, a great need for these specialists has been identified. Analysis of existing productivity and the presence of sanctions assumes the implementation of import substitution through the introduction of new and breakthrough technologies. For this purpose, one of the significant tasks is the training of new specialists - innovative managers capable of introducing innovative technologies and methods for improving the organization of production. The article describes the main functions of these specialists, determines which disciplines should be studied for this type of activity, and discusses the main teaching methods. The knowledge and skills that innovative managers must have to implement the process of introducing innovative technologies in modern conditions are determined. The need for widespread implementation of methods of functional-cost analysis, the theory of solving inventive problems and the method of repeated use of feedback in the implementation of innovative projects for improving various systems is shown. For the main learning process, it is proposed to use the project method using the “Singapore training system”, which makes it possible to prepare specialists who can think and work in a team when carrying out real projects. The relationship between gross domestic product (GDP) per capita and the process of startups in highly developed countries is shown. To train innovative managers, a new training system is proposed, which is based not on the perception of information materials, but on the process of creative creation of new systems and processes using existing information materials, if necessary.